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Md. firefighter disciplined after driving $500K fire engine into floodwater

A Montgomery County fire engine is likely totaled after being driven into floodwaters during a rescue, prompting an internal review and placing the firefighter behind the wheel on non-driving status

SILVER SPRING, Md. — A fire engine worth more than $500,000 was likely destroyed in weekend floodwaters, and the firefighter who drove it is now under investigation.

According to Montgomery County Fire and Rescue Service, the incident occurred on July 19, in Silver Spring as firefighters responded to rescue occupants from a partially submerged vehicle, NBC Washington reported.

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As rising waters surrounded the car, bystanders stepped in to help, pulling one person through a passenger window and assisting others still trapped inside.

Video showed firefighters driving the engine into deep floodwaters, causing water to surge over the windshield and sending a wake that rocked the already submerged vehicle.

Though everyone in the car was safely rescued, the fire engine stalled and couldn’t be driven out. The crew had to call for a tow.

Fire Chief Corey Smedley told News4 the engine is likely a total loss. The firefighter behind the wheel has been placed on non-driving status while the incident is under review, though they have not been put on administrative leave. Mechanics are assessing whether the engine can be salvaged, but Smedley said that outcome is unlikely.

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Bill Carey is the associate editor for FireRescue1.com and EMS1.com. A former Maryland volunteer firefighter, sergeant, and lieutenant, Bill has written for several fire service publications and platforms. His work on firefighter behavioral health garnered a 2014 Neal Award nomination. His ongoing research and writings about line-of-duty death data is frequently cited in articles, presentations, and trainings. Have a news tip? He can be reached at news@lexipol.com.